Sam Carey Classic Set for August 21st
After Sam Carey died in a car accident in 2011, his longtime friend, Mike Stys, decided to organize an annual memorial basketball classic in Carey’s name.
“The first year the goal was to raise money for a trust fund set up for Sam’s family,” said Stys, referring to Carey’s infant son, Brayden, and fiancee Kayte Kenyon. “The last two years we raised about $10,000, which will go towards renovating the basketball courts across from Beech Street School (in Manchester). The entire project will cost around $18,000 and right now, we’re closing in on that figure. I’m hoping we can reach it next month so we can start the project next spring.”
The fourth annual Sam Carey Classic will be held Friday, Aug. 21. at Manchester Central with two games. The first contest, beginning at 6 p.m., will be the high school all-star game followed by the alumni game featuring former New England high school basketball players, many of whom had successful college careers.
Stys said the fans who attend the classic will be entertained by the Boston Celtics mascot, Lucky, and members of the Green Team who will provide a halftime trampoline dunk show. Also attending the classic is Sammy Gonzalez of JAM’N 94.5 radio, WJMN-FM.
Carey played basketball at Manchester Central (2001-04) and at Southern New Hampshire University (2004-08), ranking sixth on the Penmen’s all-time scoring list. He led the Penmen in scoring and rebounds during his senior year.
Carey was playing with the Quebec Kebs of the National Basketball League of Canada when he died at age 26 in a single-car accident on Interstate 93 in Campton, coming home from Canada in November of 2011.
“Sam was a big part of our community and knowing him, he’d be doing everything he can to help kids if he were here today,” said Stys. “There are many inner-city kids who play at the Beech Street courts and the money we’re raising will go towards new glass backboards, new hoops and paving. We want to keep kids active outdoors and having fun playing sports like basketball.”
Stys said the Rock On Foundation, a 501(c3) nonprofit organization founded by the San Antonio Spurs’ Matt Bonner and his brother, former Trinity High School and UMass product Luke Bonner, has made a major impact on the Carey Classic. The Bonners are from Concord.
“Luke is the executive director of the Rock On Foundation and he has helped us out a great deal,” said Stys. “We’re also going to try to get Matt to attend this year.”
Stys, a 2008 graduate of Manchester Central, who spent two seasons at the University of New Haven before transferring to SNHU, where he became team co-captain, said the community has helped the Carey cause beyond his expectations.
“The people in Manchester and across the state have been outstanding in supporting our effort,” said Stys. “We need their help again this year to help us reach our goal.”